Ryan Pick Reassuring, Small-Business Owners Say

Republican vice presidential candidate, U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan (R-WI) speaks during a campaign rally at the NASCAR Technical Institute on August 12, 2012 in Mooresville, North Carolina.

Small business reaction to Paul Ryan's place on the presidential ticket is rolling in, and some of the feedback so far is positive.

"I like his passion," says Marc Schupan, chief executive of Schupan & Sons, a small business based in Michigan that handles aluminum orders and industrial scrap metal recycling. Leadership qualities he's looking for in a candidate include integrity, tenacity and compassion. "And I believe he has all three," said Schupan on CNBC's "Street Signs" Monday.

"The important thing right now is, what's wrong with our country," says Larry Mocha, chief executive of Air Power Systems, an Oklahoma-based small business that manufacturers air-cylinder controls.

"It's the economy. We need to elect somebody that understands business, that understands the economy, can do a strategic plan and get us moving again," said Mocha.

Schupan said he likes the fact Ryan is looking ahead to solutions.

"You don't wait to dig a well until you're thirsty," said Schupan, who employees about 400 workers. Questions about taxes and health-care costs are keeping businesses on the fence. "Having somebody that actually understands business and what needs to be done is very reassuring to small business," Schupan said.